“Urban Arts Space is honored to be included in the list,” said Valarie Williams, executive director. “We thank everyone who recognized our hard work, participated in our free events, visited the gallery and voted for us over the last four years. We greatly appreciate the recognition from our patrons.”

She said the gallery will continue to serve Columbus by providing free public programming and access to unprecedented contemporary art, and to serve the Ohio State community by launching the careers of student exhibitors and employees.

“It is Urban Arts Space’s mission to join The Ohio State University with Ohio and the world, by showcasing community projects, hosting national and international exhibitions and bringing student exhibitions into the city and the community,” she added.

Over the past four years Urban Arts Space has hosted 68 exhibitions, 25 from members of the Columbus community including Vision Unveiled from artists at Goodwill Art Studio and Gallery, and 25 on High, a collective project of 25 local photographers. There also have been seven national exhibitions including Constructing James Castle, an exhibition of the work of deaf and mute Idaho artist James Castle; and three international exhibitions including PULL LEFT, an exhibition of contemporary Chinese art from Beijing. The space has hosted 32 Ohio State student and faculty exhibitions including the work of students in the Departments of Art, Design, Dance and Theatre.

Urban Arts Space has employed more than 40 students in the past four years who have gone on to become gallery managers, visual designers, program coordinators, art teachers, event coordinators and more at organizations such as Stanford University, Cooper UX Design and Strategy Firm, Thurber House, Gahanna City Schools, National Gallery of Art and the National Aquarium in Baltimore.